Mamelodi Sundowns director Flemming Berg dismissed rumours he alone drove coach Rulani Mokwena’s exit, insisting key decisions are made through teamwork.
Mokwena’s departure came despite leading Sundowns to their seventh league title and winning the inaugural African Football League, fuelling speculation that disagreements between Mokwena and Berg were behind the split.
Berg, speaking at the Business of Football Conference, clarified that Sundowns’ decision-making is a collective process that involves input from various leaders and stakeholders, refuting claims that he was solely responsible.
“Sundowns is not a one-man club,” Berg stated. “If the media seriously believe that these big decisions are taken by one person, they completely underestimate our board.”
Berg stressed that the club’s direction and strategic decisions are shaped by a robust team comprising football, business, and leadership expertise.
He emphasised that decisions are made collaboratively, underscoring the strong role of Sundowns’ board and ownership in every critical move. “We have made the strategy, and we have a vision,” Berg explained.
“If I leave tomorrow, the strategy would still be there because we’ve proven that it works.”
He went on to criticise media portrayals suggesting otherwise, saying it underestimated Sundowns’ organisational strength.
“The idea that one person dictates big decisions is completely inaccurate,” he insisted. “These choices involve many people, careful analysis, and a shared vision for the club.”
Berg’s comments sought to dispel the perception that personal conflicts drove Mokwena’s exit, instead portraying Sundowns as a well-structured and strategic organisation driven by a collective mission.